The history of international relations includes many instances where the outcome of conflicts led to significant changes in trade and diplomatic relations between nations. One such instance is the impact of treaties on China’s trade policies in the 19th century, which saw the introduction of the ‘Treaty Port System’ and the abolition of practices such as ‘kow-tow’. This article examines the key changes that took place following these treaties, including financial reparations, the end of monopolies, and the establishment of new trade systems.
Abolition of the ‘Kow-Tow’ Practice
The ‘kow-tow’ practice, a traditional Chinese ritual of deep respect demonstrated through bowing or prostrating oneself before a superior, was abolished. This change marked a shift in the cultural interactions between China and foreign powers, as the ritual had previously been a point of contention, particularly with Western nations who viewed it as a form of subservience.
Financial Reparations Imposed on China
As a result of the conflict, China was deemed guilty and was therefore obligated to pay a significant war indemnity amounting to 12 million dollars. Additionally, China was required to settle debts owed to British merchants, which amounted to 9 million dollars. In total, the Chinese government had to pay a staggering 21 million dollars, a substantial financial burden that had long-term economic implications for the nation.
End of Monopoly Rights and Cooperation Against Contraband
The monopoly rights that had been granted to Chinese merchants, known as ‘Co-hang’, were withdrawn. This action effectively ended the exclusive trading privileges that these merchants had enjoyed and opened up competition in the Chinese market. In exchange, the British promised to cooperate with Chinese authorities in suppressing contraband goods, including opium, which had been a significant issue leading up to the conflict.
The Treaty of Bogue and Additional Concessions
Following the initial treaty, China found itself compelled to sign another agreement with England, namely the Treaty of Bogue. This treaty resulted in China ceding extra-territorial rights and granting the most favored nation clause to the British. The aftermath of these treaties saw China entering into similar agreements with other European powers, including the United States, France, Belgium, Norway, Sweden, and Portugal, conceding similar concessions and further opening up the country to foreign influence and trade.
Introduction of the Treaty Port System
The Treaty Port System emerged from the opening of five ports, which were designated as ‘Treaty Ports’, to European trade and commerce. This system allowed European nations to conduct trade with China through specified ports, effectively breaking down previous barriers to trade and paving the way for increased European presence and commercial activity within China. The Treaty Port System was instrumental in integrating China into a global trade network dominated by European interests.
Questions for UPSC
1. How did the abolition of the ‘kow-tow’ practice reflect the changing power dynamics between China and Western nations?
2. What were the long-term economic impacts on China due to the indemnities and debt settlements imposed after the conflict?
3. How did the Treaty Port System alter China’s trade policies and its interactions with European powers?